BENGALURU
In a bid to tackle rising sandalwood thefts across Karnataka, Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Ltd (KSDL) has invited farmers, scientists, innovators and organisations to propose advanced technologies and equipment for safeguarding sandalwood trees.
Announcing the initiative, Industries Minister M. B. Patil said innovators with effective anti-theft solutions would be given an opportunity to demonstrate their technologies before KSDL officials. If the systems are found feasible and efficient, the proposals will be placed before the government for consideration and possible implementation.
Patil stated that KSDL is willing to bear the cost of deploying suitable technologies to ensure better protection for sandalwood growers. He noted that theft of sandalwood trees has become a major concern for farmers cultivating the valuable species on their lands.
The minister observed that despite stringent laws to curb sandalwood smuggling and theft, conviction rates in such cases continue to remain low. He stressed the need for modern technological interventions to support law enforcement agencies and provide security to cultivators.
As part of efforts to encourage sandalwood cultivation, KSDL will honour four farmers who supply quality sandalwood produce to the organisation. The awards will be presented on June 4.
Patil also announced that police personnel, forest officials and citizens who assist in solving sandalwood theft cases would be recognised and rewarded for their contribution. Officials believe the initiative will promote greater public participation in protecting sandalwood resources while encouraging farmers to take up cultivation with confidence.
